Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders, affecting approximately 121 million people around the world, says the World Health Organization. With these staggering numbers in mind, it's no wonder that researchers are busy trying to determine possible causes and solutions to this debilitating disorder. While medication and psychotherapy are often effective in alleviating depressive symptoms, growing concern over the number of people taking prescription antidepressants has led scientists to seek alternative treatments. Specifically, dietary supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids like cod liver oil may have significant antidepressant effects.
Cod Liver Oil and Omega-3
Cod liver oil is a significant source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are necessary for maintaining proper health. Since your body cannot manufacture omega-3 acids, you must obtain them from dietary sources or supplements. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, fish oils, along with plant and nut oils, are one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Along with playing a vital role in growth and development, omega-3 acids also play an important role in maintaining mental health. In fact, if you have a deficiency of omega-3 acids, you may experience symptoms such as mood swings, fatigue and depression. Growing interest in the role of fish oils like cod liver oil on depression has led to increased research on the benefits of omega-3 acids for mood disorders.
Causes, Symptoms and Treatments
Depression isn't something that you can control. It's not "all in your mind" or simply a matter of feeling blue. Depression is a real medical illness that causes a serious impact to your well-being and your ability to function. Symptoms of depression don't go away on their own and can actually become worse if left untreated. Some common symptoms of depression include feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, decreased self-esteem, sadness or frequent tearfulness, irritability, unexplained bodily aches and pains and in some cases, suicidal thoughts or gestures. The causes of depression aren't exactly understood, although social, biological and psychological factors play a role. Doctors typically recommend a combination of psychotherapy and medication to treat depression, although some doctors also suggest alternative treatment modalities such as biofeedback, meditation and nutritional changes or the use of dietary supplements. Interestingly, omega-3 fatty acids, found in cod liver oil, may help to prevent or reduce symptoms of depression without the side effects associated with certain psychotropic medications.
Clinical Evidence
An interesting study published in the August 2007 issue of the "Journal of Affective Disorders." showed that participants who used cod liver oil regularly displayed less depressive symptoms than the rest of the rest of the general population. Additionally, the longer participants used cod liver oil, the more depressive symptoms decreased. Additionally, another study, published in the June 2010 issue of the "Journal of Clinical Psychiatry," examined the effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation of patients suffering from major depressive disorder. Patients taking the supplement experienced a significant decrease in depressive symptoms when compared to study participants who received a placebo only. However, another study, published in the May 2003 issue of the "American Journal of Psychiatry," which studied the effects of omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid supplementation on patients suffering from major depression, did not show any significant benefits.
Considerations
Studies regarding the effectiveness of omega-3 fatty acids on depressive disorders have had mixed results. While cod liver oil may help depression, it is not a cure and should not be used in place of your doctor's advice. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, omega-3 fatty acids may interact with certain medications. Inform your doctor if you plan to use an omega-3 supplement, especially if you take prescription or over-the-counter medications or have a medical condition. If you think you may be depressed, do not self-diagnose your condition. Consult your doctor or a qualified mental health provider for a proper diagnosis and to discuss treatment options.
References
- World Health Organization: Depression
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- "Journal of Affective Disorders"; Associations Between Cold Liver Oil Use...;' M.B. Raeder, et al; August 2007
- "Journal of Clinical Psychiatry"; The Efficacy of Omega-3 Supplementation for Major Depression...; F. Lespérance, et al; June 2010
- "American Journal of Psychiatry"; A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of the Omega-3 Fatty Acid Docosahexaenoic Acid in the Treatment of Major Depression; L. Marangell, et al; May 2003
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